2008 Audi A3 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP) has 191 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1979 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
